Five weeks

[Marge]

Five weeks ago from yesterday I was in pre-op talking to a (rather cute) anesthesiologist. The next thing I remember is looking up at a clock over my bed, noting it was late in the afternoon and wondering (somewhat irritated) when the heck they would start my surgery.
Actually it had already been done and I was in ICU.
Five weeks ago from today I was being wheeled on a gurney from ICU into the step-down unit.
--------
And today? On a beautiful sunny Northern California spring day I walked along a street lined with cherry trees dripping white blossom, near the hospital where I had the surgery, up to my surgeon's office for my last post-op follow-up appointment.
It was pretty pro forma -- there was nothing much for him to do. He looked at my scars and admired his handiwork. He said that the regurgitation has been completely stopped and that the repair should last my lifetime (at least).
My recovery was uneventful. My lungs are clear, I have no pain, I am cleared to drive. I thanked him for doing an excellent job, said good-bye to the nurse and receptionist, and left.
I walked back to the car, thinking: Well that's over; now I can get back to my REAL life.
Thanks to everyone here for sticking with me through this time.

 

[labguides]

Marge,
That good news -- no leakage from that valve! After all the worry during the weeks leading up to surgery, it is a pretty amazing change. Sounds like you are recovering nicely! Keep us posted on your progress.

 

[Nancy]

Nice post, Marge. You've recovered beautifully. Life is grand!

 

[Raverlaw]

Marge,

Quite simply - YAY!

Isn't life beautiful? Modern medicine can pull off some pretty miraculous things. You're doing just grand and are more than ready to get back to life.

But don't forget us here at VR, OK?

 

[SJJ]

Marge,
Yeah, life is so much better it seems once the surgery is in the past and not looming in the future. I'm delighted to hear that your recovery has been so successful and now you're on the verge of entering your old stream of life, with a bit more appreciation perhaps, for the simple joy of living. We've all enjoyed your wit, intelligence, knowledge, perspective and support over the past three months- since your very first post. I hope you don't mean to leave us just yet as your voice would surely be missed. Congratulations Marge, enjoy the valley after that mountain trek you just finished!
Sue

 

[Marge]

Hey, gang, I didn't mean I wasn't going to hang around!

I still have some healing to do. I have cardiac rehab coming up..... also, questions about keeping my INR in range, and about this pesky rapid heart rate that still bothers me (though nobody else, apparently). Other things will probably surface. I am sure I will still have lots of questions & will need continued help & inspiration from you guys. Also, just maybe, I can help others who are going through the process.

 

[SJJ]

M,
Well, that's a relief!
Sue

 

[Raverlaw]

Yeah,

Marge and Sue- the three of us had surgery within days of each other and will have to stick together!

 

[Mark Wagner]

Right on Marge! Sounds like your well on your way to an excellent recovery. It is beautiful with everything beginning to flower out now. Trouble is, now I have to start mowing my lawn again!

Enjoy your walks. ... Mark

 

[McCln]

Marge

Marge

So glad that you are doing so well. Keep up the walking, especially in good weather. I am doing that today. Already been to the grocery and back and soon be out to purchase a cell phone. That way, when I am online, my brother will reach me. Keep on walking and doing what the cardio says.

Caroline
09-13-01
Aortic valve replacement
St. Jude's valve

 

[KathyH]

Marge,
Glad you are doing so well. Your post is an inspiration for me. Just 12 more days before I can start getting on with my life.
Kathy H

 

[Harpoon]

Marge,

Five weeks after my tricuspid replacement I was JUST starting to wake up.... =)


Congratualations!


May the road ahead lay smooth and straight.

Take care of yourself. =)

 

[Marge]

<< Marge,

Five weeks after my tricuspid replacement I was JUST starting to wake up.... =) >>

Yeah, Harp, I know I am very very lucky. One thing I learned from this site: at least to try not to feel so sorry for myself!!!!

I felt thoroughly overwhelmed when I was diagnosed with CHF last year -- and then to be told that I was a candidate for open heart surgery -- ! Although I was glad to learn that they could DO something -- still, that was pretty scary. But then I found this site and learned about people who have had multiple valve surgeries & all kinds of other medical problems along with the valves and were lots sicker than me and still came through with courage and poise.

I realize how easy I have had it.